The Salamander

The Salamander is a 1981 political thriller movie directed by Peter Zinner, starring Franco Nero, Anthony Quinn, and Martin Balsam. The film is set in Italy, and the plot revolves around a terrorist attack, assassination, and subsequent investigation.

The movie begins with a bomb exploding in a crowded Italian marketplace, killing and injuring several people. The attack is attributed to the Salamander, a shadowy terrorist organization that has been active in Italy for years. The government, under pressure from the public, hires an esteemed lawyer, Dante Matucci (Franco Nero), to lead the investigation into the Salamander's activities.

As Dante begins his investigation, he uncovers a web of corruption and deceit that goes all the way to the top of the government. Dante finds that the Salamander is not the only threat to Italy's national security; there are powerful people within the government who are also working against the country's interests.

Dante's investigations lead him to cross paths with the Salamander's leader, General Zabulon (Anthony Quinn), who is protecting his organization's secrets at any cost. Zabulon is a war hero, a ruthless military strategist, and the public face of the Salamander. He is also deeply connected to the corrupt elements within the government.

As Dante digs deeper, he discovers a link between the Salamander and his own family's dark secrets. His father had been a high-ranking official in the fascist era, and his close involvement with the Salamander emerges as Dante's investigation progresses.

Dante's search for the truth leads him to confrontations with both the government and the Salamander. He faces betrayal, violence, and death threats, but he refuses to back down. In his quest for justice, he turns to his mentor, Colonel Bukharin (Martin Balsam), a Soviet spy embedded in Italy's secret service. Together, they try to expose the links between the Salamander, the corrupt elements in the government, and the terrorist attack.

The Salamander is a tense thriller that explores the themes of political corruption, terrorism, and the legacy of fascism in post-war Italy. The movie depicts the political and social turmoil of the country at the time, with terrorist attacks, leftist protests, and the rise of right-wing extremism. The plot is full of twists and turns, with unexpected revelations and shocking revelations.

The acting is top-notch, with Franco Nero giving a compelling performance as Dante, the intrepid investigator, whose past haunts him as he unravels the truth about the Salamander. Anthony Quinn is excellent as General Zabulon, the ruthless leader of the Salamander, whose charisma and military prowess belie his sinister intentions. Martin Balsam is equally impressive as Colonel Bukharin, the wily spy who helps Dante navigate the dangerous waters of Italian politics.

The movie's cinematography is also noteworthy, with elegant camera work and stylish set pieces. The Salamander captures the essence of Italy's unique beauty, with its narrow streets, charming piazzas, and historic buildings.

The movie's score is composed by Armando Trovajoli, and it perfectly captures the mood of the film. The music is haunting and atmospheric, creating a sense of foreboding and suspense that perfectly complements the plot.

In conclusion, The Salamander is a thrilling political drama that keeps the audience on edge throughout. The movie explores the darker aspects of Italian politics and society, depicting a country plagued by corruption, terrorism, and political intrigue. The movie's nuanced portrayal of its characters, its elegant cinematography, and its haunting score make it a must-watch for fans of political thrillers.